Method for air-fuel ratio sensor diagnosis

Abstract

A method is disclosed for controlling operation of an engine coupled to an exhaust treatment catalyst. Under predetermined conditions, such as after an engine cold start, the method operates an engine with a first group of cylinders having a first ignition timing, and a second group of cylinders having a second ignition timing more retarded than the first group. In addition, the engine control method also provides the following features in combination with the above-described split air / lean mode: idle speed control, sensor diagnostics, air / fuel ratio control, adaptive learning, fuel vapor purging, catalyst temperature estimation, default operation, and exhaust gas and emission control device temperature control. In addition, the engine control method also can change to combusting all cylinders at substantially the same ignition timing under preselected operating conditions such as fuel vapor purging, manifold vacuum control, and purging of stored oxidants in an emission control device.

Description

1. Field of the InventionThe field of the invention relates generally to air-fuel ratio sensor diagnosis.2. Background of the InventionThere are various methods used for determining whether an exhaust air-fuel ratio sensor has been degraded. For example, one method is to look for switching during closed loop control around stoichiometry. If the sensor switching reduced, then degradation could be found. Another method is to determine whether the sensor is operating within predetermined range around a desired air / fuel ratio.The inventors herein have recognized a problem with prior approaches. In particular, when using a system in which the sensor is exposed to air pumped through a cylinder, the sensor may stop switching, or be forced beyond the predetermined range. Thus, even for a sensor that has not degraded, a false indication can be provided that the sensor is degraded.SUMMARY OF INVENTIONThe above disadvantages are overcome by a system, comprising: an engine having a first group ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This approach effectively prevents false diagnoses of sensor degradation by checking the sensor's functionality when exposed to air, ensuring accurate assessments and reducing unnecessary repairs.

Problems solved by technology

If the sensor switching reduced, then degradation could be found.

In particular, when using a system in which the sensor is exposed to air pumped through a cylinder, the sensor may stop switching, or be forced beyond the predetermined range.

Thus, even for a sensor that has not degraded, a false indication can be provided that the sensor is degraded.

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